Denver Zoo's 'Elephant Passage' Exhibit Set To Open Friday (PHOTOS)

If you thought Memorial Day weekend at the Denver Zoo was busy, just wait until tomorrow. Friday, June 1, marks the official opening day of The Denver Zoo's eagerly anticipated Toyota Elephant Passage exhibit and the zoo is expecting a big turnout.

How big? Well, so big that for the first time in zoo history they are offering timed reservations for guests of its newest Asian-tropics-themed exhibit.

The Denver Post reports that during the peak visiting season, there are roughly 7,500 visitors a day. But the zoo expects those numbers to be closer to 8,000-10,000 daily once the Asian elephant exhibit opens to the public on Friday.

The Toyota Elephant Passage exhibit is free with the price of admission, 7News reports, but reservations are required to ensure guests gain entry to see the 10 acre complex featuring six expansive outdoor yards, three animal crossings, and more than 1.1 million gallons of water for the exhibit animals to enjoy.

Timed entry reservations are scheduled every 15 minutes between the hours of 9:15 a.m. and 4 p.m., according to The Denver Zoo website. But, once guests enter the exhibit, they can explore for as long as they like.

The grand opening begins June 1 and goes through August 19. Access to the exhibit is included with a yearly membership or general admission ticket. Zoo ticket prices below:

• Ages 12-64 -- $15
• Ages 65+-- $12
• Ages 3-11 -- $10
• 2 and under -- FREE

Reservations can be made in advance online at zoo's website, or at the zoo on the day of visit, but due to the expected large turnout, it is highly recommended that guests make online reservations in advance.

For more information on timed entry reservations, parking and what to expect from the new exhibit, visit The Denver Zoo's Elephant Passage timed ticket FAQ page.

LOOK: Images, video from the new Toyota Elephant Passage exhibit at The Denver Zoo